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An’Jeanette “Ann” Beverly, ’20, MBA ’22, reached a crisis point during the COVID-19 pandemic as she was trying to finish her bachelor’s degree at ����ֱ�� State University at Stark. During her last semester, this single mother in her forties was balancing the responsibilities of raising her teenage son, managing household expenses and pursuing her educational goals. Financial uncertainty threatened to interrupt the academic journey she had worked so hard to complete. 

“I had no money,” Beverly said. “I was so stressed out that I wasn’t going to be able to complete my schooling.” 

Then came a lifeline. Beverly learned she had received ����ֱ�� State Stark's Last Dollar Scholarship, a fund designed to help students when they are on the verge of achieving their dream of a college degree but have run out of options to pay for it. 

"It was life changing for me," she said. 

For Beverly, the scholarship represented far more than financial assistance. It was a vote of confidence at a moment when she needed it most. 

“An’Jeanette is truly an example of why I love my job so much,” said Beth Fuciu, director of philanthropy at ����ֱ�� State Stark. “I have the privilege of connecting generous people who want to change lives with students who sometimes just need a little help at exactly the right moment.” 

With the help of the Last Dollar Scholarship, Beverly completed her bachelor's degree and continue her education, eventually earning a Master of Business Administration degree from ����ֱ�� State. 

Today, the first-generation college graduate has built a career and a future that once felt uncertain. She works in human resources at Coleman Health Services, serving the community through a nonprofit organization. She has also embraced entrepreneurship, opening Suites Inc., a collection of salon suites in Akron, Ohio, bringing new life to a space that had been vacant since 2020. 

“To see everything she has accomplished and the life she has built is incredibly special,” said Fuciu. “Knowing that the generosity of our donors helped make that possible is what makes my work so rewarding.” 

Beverly's life continues to grow in meaningful ways. Since graduating, she has become a grandmother, and her son is now preparing to join the U.S. Air Force. Looking ahead, she is focused on creating opportunities not only for herself but also for her community. 

“I want to create a legacy in the city of Akron,” Beverly explained. “We have a family business here now. The Last Dollar Scholarship was an investment in my future.” 

She credits the ����ֱ�� State community, from faculty and staff members to scholarship donors, and their passion for education for helping her get where she is today. 

“Not only are you passionate about education, but you want to see students succeed,” Beverly said of the donors who contribute to student scholarships. “I am so grateful for ����ֱ�� State.” 

Beverly knows firsthand that financial obstacles can derail even the most determined students. That's why she believes scholarships like the Last Dollar Scholarship are essential. 

"I came back to school in my late thirties, but younger students also need help," she said. "You might have someone who doesn't have parents or financial backing. These scholarships are imperative for someone who doesn't have financial support but still wants to complete their college education." 

For students standing at the finish line of their college journey, one scholarship can mean the difference between stopping short and stepping into a future they once only imagined.

To make a gift to support the Last Dollar Scholarship, please visit our .